In a significant policy shift, Saudi Arabia has introduced a new visa regulation that restricts travelers from Nigeria and 13 other countries to single-entry visas.
The announcement was made through the official X handle of Nigerian Stories, highlighting the Kingdom’s latest move aimed at tightening its immigration controls, particularly concerning unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages.
The Saudi government has justified the decision as a measure to enhance security, streamline pilgrimage logistics, and prevent violations of visa terms. This policy is expected to impact thousands of Nigerian Muslims who travel to the Holy Land annually for religious purposes beyond the officially sanctioned Hajj period.
While the specifics of the affected countries remain undisclosed, the restriction signals a broader clampdown on multiple-entry privileges previously granted to visitors. Experts believe this could complicate travel plans for those with business or family ties in Saudi Arabia, as they will now have to apply for new visas each time they seek entry.
The new policy has sparked concerns among stakeholders in Nigeria’s travel and religious communities, with many calling for diplomatic engagement to seek possible exemptions or reconsiderations.
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